Saint Pachomius, the founder of Christian communal religious life. Born of pagan parents in the diocese of Sne, Pachomius was a young Copt who knew neither Greek nor Latin. Around the age of 20, he was mobilized into the army. While detained (possibly in Antinoe), he was profoundly impacted by the charitable actions of Christians, who showed love for the sake of God.

This experience sparked a vow: if God delivered him, he would serve humankind all the days of his life. After his military service ended, he received the grace to become a Christian and was baptized in Antinoe. The night of his baptism, he had a significant vision of heavenly dew.

In fulfillment of his vow, he spent the first three years of his Christian life serving surrounding villages, but found this simple social service left him disquieted. Seeking deeper spiritual engagement through the anchoritic life, he became a disciple of the aged ascetic, Apa Palamon.

For seven years, he lived with Palamon, undergoing a period of intense formation marked by hard and exhausting asceticism, including vigils, prayer, Scripture recitation, manual labor, and humble obedience. Palamon taught him the rigorous "measure of monastic life", emphasizing constant prayer and self-denial.

This demanding apprenticeship molded him, leading to a second vision of the dew and keys after four years, which foreshadowed his unique future calling.

Today, we're exploring the book "80 Days Journey with the Desert Fathers," a collection compiled by Palladius Bishop of Helenepolis.

This book presents the excellent deeds and marvellous lives of holy and blessed Fathers and Mothers who chose to live in the desert, embracing a solitary life and striving for a heavenly life. Palladius travelled extensively through cities, villages, caves, and monastic settlements in Egypt, seeking out these spiritual athletes. He shares stories based on what he saw face to face and what he heard from the holy Fathers themselves.

You'll encounter figures like Abba Isidore of Alexandria, a priest and hospital overseer known for his spiritual excellence, mercy, knowledge of Holy Scriptures, and profound contemplative experiences6.... He lived a life of severe self-denial, never washing or eating flesh, yet possessed a sound body6.... His deep desire for paradise even brought him to tears while eating

The book, compiled and edited as a daily read, is presented as an 80-day journey, with each story aiming to illuminate virtues like humility, perseverance, and the profound pursuit of spiritual excellence. It's offered as an indispensable companion for those seeking to understand the Christian monastic tradition and be inspired by the lives of these saints.

Explore the rich spirituality of Coptic priest Fr. Bishoy Kamel, whose life and teachings offer a profound contribution to universal Christian spirituality. This podcast delves into his central theme: the authentic Theology of the Cross (theologia crucis), which was seen as the key to his life and ministry.

Discover how Fr. Bishoy saw the Cross not only in suffering but as the source of light and salvation, transforming all of life's experiences, even confronting illness like cancer. We will explore his deep devotion to the saving and healing cross, his practice and encouragement of the Jesus Prayer, and how his love for the cross enabled him to see the presence of Christ in every person. Learn why his life, embodying "righteous clarity and simplicity", remains a powerful example of living out faith through the "transfigured cross of Christ"